As 2024 unfolds, the world of luxury home design continues to evolve, setting new standards for elegance, comfort, and innovation. Courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens, this guide dives into the top trends shaping the luxury real estate market. Read on to absorb insights for homeowners and prospective buyers looking to invest in the homes for sale. On-Trend Aesthetics As the owner of a spacious home, you should not feel confined to one or two design styles. Draw from these seven aesthetics when planning your next project.   Minimalism Minimalism continues to be a defining characteristic of luxury home design. Clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and a neutral color palette create an atmosphere of understated elegance. This minimalist approach makes high-quality materials and architectural details shine, creating a sophisticated and timeless look. Minimalism is also versatile and can be combined with many other aesthetics.   Cottagecore   The Cottagecore aesthetic is a staple in décor. It is characterized by rustic wooden furniture, vintage decor, floral patterns, wicker, and other nostalgic touches. This style creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere in luxury homes.     Grand Millennial Chic Elements of Grand Millennial Chic and old-fashioned decorating are trending. High-end homes increasingly feature interior design elements like wall paneling, micro-print wallpaper, floral artwork, and chunky chandeliers.   Modern Farmhouse Modern farmhouse design remains popular. This style combines tradition with a modern twist and features cozy, charming décor that makes homeowners feel comfortable and at home. Heritage Revival Homeowners are turning to decor styles like Modern Shaker, which emphasizes simplicity, traditional furniture, and historic colors in unusual combinations. Install stained wood paneling and ceilings for a cozy aesthetic from biophilic design elements. Organic Modern The organic modern design trend pairs clean lines with unexpected elements like beachy linens and grandiose mirrors, creating a fresh and inviting look. High-end homes increasingly incorporate eco-friendly materials (like reclaimed wood, bamboo, and recycled metal) and energy-efficient systems.     Biophilia Biophilic design emphasizes the connection between indoor spaces and nature, a significant trend in luxury homes. Large windows, indoor gardens, and natural materials create a serene and harmonious atmosphere. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes mental well-being.   Bathroom Upgrades Luxe Bathrooms Upgrades in kitchens and bathrooms strike a balance between function and flair. Expect to see natural woods like white oak paired with painted cabinets in organic blues or greens. Large-format stone on backsplashes and walls, such as marble or quartz, create high impact looks. Bathroom updates often focus on cleanliness and accessibility. Wall-hung toilets, smart toilets, bidets, better storage, touchless faucets, and shower wands are becoming more common. Spa-like Retreats Bathrooms in luxury homes are transforming into spa-like retreats. Features such as floor-to-ceiling stone, porcelain tile, free-standing tubs, steam showers, and rain showers create a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. High-end materials like marble and quartz and elegant fixtures add to the luxury. Meanwhile, marble or natural wood finishes make for calm and natural retreats.   Functional Fixes Bathroom updates focus on safety, cleanliness, and accessibility. Wall-hung toilets, smart toilets, bidets, better storage, touchless faucets, and shower wands are becoming more common. Homeowners are incorporating temperature-controlled showers, automatic faucets, smart mirrors, and integrated lighting.   Updated Faucets Updated fixtures, including elegant faucets in colors like matte black, rose gold, and shiny brass, are popular among home renovators for elevating kitchen and bathroom style and function.   Kitchen Upgrades For many homeowners, the kitchen is the busiest part of the house. Professional-Grade Appliances The kitchen remains the heart of the home, and in luxury properties, it is equipped with professional-grade appliances. From state-of-the-art ovens and refrigerators to high-end coffee machines and wine coolers, these kitchens are designed for culinary enthusiasts and casual cooks.   Designer Finishes High-quality finishes, such as custom cabinetry, stone countertops, and designer backsplashes, are essential elements of a luxury kitchen. These finishes enhance the aesthetic appeal and ensure durability and functionality.   Scullery Kitchens and Butlers Pantries The schullery kitchen home trend allows homeowners to get lots of kitchen storage in an attractive package. Places to stow away your pots and pans minimize the mess of cooking while doubling as a showpiece when entertaining guests.    Bonus Buildings Beyond patios and outdoor entertainment areas, homeowners fortunate to have extra space on their properties are choosing “bonus buildings.” These additional rooms can be used as guest quarters, work-from-home offices, reading nooks, and creative studios. You can even rent them out on Airbnb and VRBO.   Elevated Laundry Rooms Homeowners want functional and beautiful laundry rooms that make chores more tolerable. These spaces, no matter how large or small, are designed with style and practicality. Auxiliary Home Areas Luxury homes are designed to be both beautiful and functional. The following home areas have become aesthetic sandboxes, places to experiment with design while ensuring that every inch of space is utilized effectively. Statement Exteriors Homeowners are moving away from traditional bright whites, grays, and tans, instead opting for statement-making palettes on siding, trim, and front doors. Expect vibrant blues and greens, creamy neutrals, pastels, and monochromatic schemes of charcoal and black. Using bold colors is okay, provided you keep the overall design cohesive. Outdoor Oases Outdoor living areas are becoming extensions of the indoor space. Homeowners who want to host gatherings find these extended living spaces invaluable. Features such as outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and luxurious seating areas make these spaces perfect for entertaining and can provide space for children to play. Artisanal Touches There are many ways to enhance your home's interior and exterior design. These are just five techniques for the perfect accent.   Mix & Match Today’s savvy consumers mix and match different colors and patterns, blend design styles and materials, and add eclectic accents for a unique, custom feel. This trend melds traditional and modern elements for fresh, signature styles.   LVP Flooring   Luxury homes continue favoring luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring due to its durability, affordability, and ease of maintenance. LVP can mimic the look of hardwood flooring, making it a versatile choice.   Mood-Boosting Paints Interior paint colors that shape moods are on the rise. Earth tones like greens and blues evoke calming feelings, while brighter colors, deep saturated tones, and electric hues bring joy into a space.   Handcrafted Detailing In 2024, luxury homes are embracing the beauty of craftsmanship. Handcrafted details, from bespoke furniture to custom-made lighting fixtures, add a personal touch to the interiors. These unique pieces reflect the homeowner's personality and elevate the overall design.   Local Art and Artifacts Incorporating local art and cultural artifacts adds depth and character to the home design. This trend is particularly relevant in areas rich in local culture, where themes can be beautifully integrated into the décor, celebrating the local heritage and surroundings.

Pumpkin Patches & Fall Fun in Whatcom and Skagit Counties Fall is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate the season than by heading out to the local pumpkin patches and enjoying all the fall festivities happening around Bellingham, Whatcom, and Skagit counties. Whether you’re looking to pick the perfect pumpkin, sip on some fresh cider, or just soak up those cozy fall vibes, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a list of the best spots to check out this season! Stoney Ridge Farm – Everson, WA Stoney Ridge Farm is a classic spot for fall fun. Open on Fridays and Saturdays throughout October, this place has everything: pumpkins, hayrides, and fresh apple cider. It’s the kind of farm where you can take the whole family, enjoy some donuts, and let the kids meet some farm animals. Don’t miss the corn maze for a little extra adventure! What to Expect: Pumpkin patch (lots of sizes to choose from) Fun hayrides Fresh apple cider and donuts Open on Fridays and Saturdays Bellewood Farms & Distillery – Lynden, WA Bellewood Farms is not just about pumpkins—they’ve got a whole mix of activities for fall. You can pick your own pumpkins AND apples, plus take a tour of their distillery if you’re feeling fancy. They’ve got a café serving up tasty seasonal treats (hello, apple pie!), and it’s the perfect place to grab a bite after wandering the pumpkin patch. Highlights: U-pick pumpkins and apples Corn maze for all ages Distillery tours and tastings for the adults Seasonal goodies at their café Gordon Skagit Farms – Mount Vernon, WA If you’re heading a little further south, Gordon Skagit Farms is a must-visit. Known for their HUGE selection of pumpkins and awesome fall displays, this place is an Instagram dream. Whether you’re taking the kids or just looking for a fun afternoon, you’ll find pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, plus fresh produce and local goodies in their barn. Oh, and don’t forget to check out their amazing Halloween decorations! What You’ll Find: Tons of pumpkins to choose from Beautiful fall photo ops Fresh produce and local products Halloween-themed displays and carvings Harvest Festival at Cloud Mountain Farm Center – Everson, WA Cloud Mountain Farm Center hosts a fantastic Harvest Festival every October, celebrating all things fall. It’s a great way to support local farmers and enjoy some fun activities like cider pressing demos and farm tours. They also have educational workshops if you’re interested in learning more about sustainable farming. Of course, there’s plenty of pumpkin action, too! Why You’ll Love It: Cider pressing demos Local food vendors and produce Educational farm tours and workshops Pumpkin sales and more Halloween in Downtown Bellingham If you’re more into Halloween than pumpkins, Downtown Bellingham has you covered. Local businesses open their doors for trick-or-treating, and there are often costume contests, haunted tours, and other spooky fun. It’s a great spot to take the kids or just get into the Halloween spirit! Things to Do: Trick-or-treating at local shops Costume contests for all ages Haunted history tours (if you dare!) Farmstrong Brewing Co. Fall Festivities – Mount Vernon, WA For those who enjoy a good pumpkin beer or Oktoberfest vibe, Farmstrong Brewing Co. in Mount Vernon is the spot. They host live music, food trucks, and seasonal beer releases throughout the fall. It’s a laid-back place to hang out, grab a drink, and enjoy the fall flavors. What’s Happening: Pumpkin beer and seasonal brews Oktoberfest celebrations Live music and food trucks Pro Tips for Fall Fun: Get there early: The best pumpkins go fast! Aim for early October to get the best picks. Dress for the weather: Fall in the PNW can be wet and chilly, so bring layers and maybe some boots if it's muddy. Bring cash: Not every farm takes cards, and having a little cash on hand is always a good idea. Check times: Some farms are only open on weekends, so double-check before you head out. There’s so much to enjoy around Bellingham, Whatcom, and Skagit counties during the fall season. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect pumpkin or just want to get into the festive spirit, these spots are a great way to celebrate autumn with family and friends. Thinking of making Bellingham your permanent home? If you’re interested in the local real estate market, I’d love to help you find your dream home here in Whatcom County. Get in touch with me anytime at (360) 920-1218. 

If you're a golf enthusiast or just looking to hit the links on a sunny day, Bellingham has no shortage of great courses to check out. From the historic fairways of Bellingham Golf and Country Club to the stunning views at Shuksan, there's something here for every type of golfer. Whether you're up for a casual round or looking to improve your game, these local gems offer some of the best golfing experiences in the Pacific Northwest. Here’s a brief rundown of what each course has to offer!   Bellingham Golf and Country ClubEstablished in 1912, the Bellingham Golf and Country Club is one of the oldest and most prestigious courses in the region. This private 18-hole course offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience, with beautifully manicured greens, a lush tree-lined landscape, and a welcoming clubhouse. With a strong focus on community and camaraderie, the Club also provides dining, swimming, and social events for members.   Semiahmoo Golf CourseLocated just north of Bellingham in Blaine, Semiahmoo Golf Course is a top-rated, award-winning course designed by Arnold Palmer. Offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside and Puget Sound, this 18-hole course is both challenging and rewarding for golfers of all skill levels. With excellent facilities and a professional staff, Semiahmoo is a premier destination for golf in the Pacific Northwest.   Lake Padden Golf CourseNestled near the scenic Lake Padden Park, this 18-hole public golf course provides a serene and picturesque golfing experience. The course is known for its affordable green fees, friendly staff, and well-maintained greens, making it a favorite for local golfers. After your round, take a stroll around the lake or relax at the on-site restaurant with stunning views of the surrounding forest. Shuksan Golf CourseShuksan Golf Course offers a peaceful and scenic round of golf just minutes from downtown Bellingham. Known for its stunning views of Mount Shuksan and the surrounding Cascade Mountains, this 18-hole course features rolling fairways, well-protected greens, and a diverse layout that challenges players of all skill levels. The course’s natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. This course is also accompanied by a great restaurant, The Bistro at Shuksan, which is a modern fusion restaurant with beautiful views of the course.  North Bellingham Golf CourseThis links-style course, located just off I-5, is known for its open fairways, challenging wind conditions, and panoramic views of Mount Baker. North Bellingham Golf Course offers a unique playing experience with its natural, undisturbed landscape and smooth, fast greens. With a commitment to sustainability and a friendly atmosphere, it’s a great option for golfers looking for a quality, affordable round. Raspberry Ridge Golf CourseRaspberry Ridge is a charming 9-hole course located just outside of Bellingham in Everson, offering a laid-back and casual golfing experience. The course is perfect for beginners or those looking for a quick and enjoyable round, with affordable rates and a friendly, welcoming environment. Surrounded by farmland and picturesque scenery, it’s a great spot to practice your game and enjoy the peaceful countryside.